What are the best free things to do in London?
Short answer
The national museums are free and world-class — British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, V&A, Natural History Museum. Add the Sky Garden viewing deck, Hampstead Heath, Columbia Road flower market on Sunday and the South Bank walk, and you can fill days without paying for entry.
Free in London does not mean second-tier. The permanent collections at the national museums are among the best in the world and cost nothing; only temporary exhibitions are ticketed.
Parks do heavy lifting here too. Hampstead Heath in particular feels like leaving the city without leaving it, and the view from Parliament Hill is the best free skyline in London.
The specifics
Sky Garden
Free viewing deck 35 floors up. Book a slot online a few weeks ahead.
Hampstead Heath
Wild-feeling parkland, swimming ponds, and the Parliament Hill view.
Columbia Road
Sunday flower market, best at 8.30am or after 2pm when prices drop.
Wallace Collection
A free house museum most visitors never find, with an excellent courtyard café.
Thames Path
Walk Tower Bridge to Westminster on the south bank for the whole skyline in an hour.
More London questions
- Where do locals actually eat in London?
- What should I skip in London?
- Is London safe at night?
- How many days do you need in London?